A powerful statement with pant suits

Fashion is often a representation of the society we live in, and the trends this year indicate that women are finally wearing the pants – not just metaphorically, but quite literally. Pant suits aka trouser suits are the new power suits that are a must-have in your wardrobe for the year 2019. From royal icons like Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle to showbiz stars like Lady Gaga, Jennifer Aniston, Anushka Sharma, Sonam Kapoor, A-listers are sporting stylish versions of pant suits to step up their fashion game.

Pant suits are not just a symbol of authoritative elegance but are also comfy and multi-functional. Designer Hema Kaul thinks that pant suits make a woman’s appearance more impactful. She points out, “The matchy pants and blazers with prints just add fun and quirky element to fashion. A cropped pair of trousers can be worn to show off the sneakers for a more playful shoe opportunity. For a suiting look outside the office, try a cropped top instead of a blouse. Pink matchy suits do send a more casual and chic vibe. The perfect neutral for your wardrobe like greys and beige can add a touch of femininity to the masculine suit and can accessories with a belt and chunky hand cuff.”

Inspired by celebrities donning business suits in prints, bright colours, and varied cuts, working women can take a cue and incorporate pant suits as part of office wardrobe quite easily. Shweta Sharma, a CEO, believes that pant suits are  practical for work. She says, “Not only are they ideal for boardroom meetings, but can be carried on to dinner plans with panache.” Here are a few dos and don’ts for styling pant suits for different occasions -- for a formal work setting, invest in basic colors such as black, grey or tan. Pair it with bright orange or teal shell top to add oomph. The focus is on practical details such as pockets, no visible panty lines, and structured yet comfortable silhouettes. Finish this look with a sleek ponytail and matching pumps. For casual outings, pair them with a contrasting scoop or v neck t-shirt. Add a bright yellow or red t-shirt with a grey suit and let the contrast get you compliments. For an evening out, add a chunky necklace to your suit to instantly brighten up your outfit. Let your hair down and add a bright lipstick for a bold look. Avoid wearing open toe shoes with Pant Suits. If you are not comfortable with heels, choose a suit with slim pants instead of straight or flared ones and pair them with matching flat shoes.”

Brands like Balmain, Givency and Chanel are already making a mark on the runway and styling celebrities in their signature pant suits. Designer Adarsh Makharia  highlights the fact that more celebrities are now following the trend and sporting pant suits to high profile events. The designer elaborates the right way to pull off the trend and says, “Wear well cut and fitted pant suits and stay away from ill-fitted suits with too many colours and patterns. Small patterns on a monochromatic pant suit will give you a classy yet quirky look, where as if you style a belt with a solid coloured pant suit it will give you a minimalistic elegant look. A sleek ponytail with statement earrings will up your style quotient.”

Different pant suits can be worn according to different occasions and  head designer Sreyashee Halder, mentions that the key factors that play an important role in making a statement are colour and silhouette, so get that right. “The sensibility of wearing the right colours and colour combinations is very important. Pastels and soft sorbet tones along with muted mid tones are going to dominate the fashion scenario in this department. Also when teaming up a top-to-toe look – tonals or soft contrasts like a light grey with pale yellow, lilacs with pale pink or offbeat soft colour combinations add newness to the fresh new season. Wearing clashing contrast prints together either in the same garment or as co-ordinates teamed up together creates a completely new (and fun) way to dress and be a headturner.”

Designer Krupa Kapadia encourages people to ditch the safe colours and go for brighter tones, neons and bold prints. The designer says, “Bright colours look great in pant suits. Although people usually stick to neutrals, it is fun to try neons and colour blocking too. In prints, try small floral print or plaid and even geometric prints like polka dots. The cuts can range from oversize suits to box pleat trousers or flare legged pants for a change, and in the blazer, try a sleeveless vest or a double breasted jacket. Wear the suit with minimal yet bold accessories.”